What is pancreatic cancer?
11/17/2025 by Stephanie Hansel, M.D.
The pancreas is an organ that lies behind the stomach and releases enzymes that aid in digestion. Both noncancerous and cancerous growths can occur in the pancreas, but the most common pancreatic cancer is pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.
What symptoms might indicate pancreatic cancer?
Early-stage often does not produce noticeable symptoms. In some cases, pancreatic cancers are discovered incidentally during imaging performed to assess for other medical conditions. In the advanced stages of pancreatic cancer, patients may experience:
- Unintentional weight loss.
- Loss of appetite.
- Yellowing of the whites of the eyes and skin.
- Dark-colored urine.
- Pale-colored stools.
- New diagnosis of diabetes or worsening control of existing diabetes.
- Blood clots.
- Fatigue.
Diagnostic Tests
To diagnose pancreatic cancer, CT (computed tomography) or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans are often used.. A biopsy may be necessary to confirm this diagnosis.
Treatment Options
Treatment of pancreatic cancer depends on the stage and location of the tumor at the time of diagnosis. Treatment options include:
- Surgery.
- Radiation therapy.
- Chemotherapy.
- A combination of these steps
Prevention
You can reduce your risk of developing pancreatic cancer by addressing modifiable risk factors. The most important preventive measure is to avoid or stop smoking. Additional steps include maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and avoiding or limiting alcohol intake.
Stephanie Hansel, M.D., is a gastroenterologist at Mayo Clinic in Rochester. She completed her master's degree at North Dakota State University and her medical degree at the University of North Dakota School of Medicine & Health Sciences. Dr. Hansel completed an internal medicine residency at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and a gastroenterology fellowship at Mayo Clinic in Arizona. Her interests include general gastroenterology, endoscopy and medical education.